Should you post a formal professional photo or casual picture on LinkedIn?
There’s a debate on social media. There’s a viral post on LinkedIn:
Recently, I took a long hard look at my LinkedIn profile photo — the woman staring back at me had newly highlighted hair and a fresh cut, a pressed blazer, a hint of a smile that showed just the right amount of teeth to let you know she was serious but could be lighthearted when needed. I remember standing in my power pose as my husband snapped the photos. We poured through about 80 shots before we found the one that looked perfectly polished. But the person I was exuding then is not always who I am, and certainly, not who I am right now. Today’s remote world has blurred the lines between my professional and personal selves, so I’ve chosen to represent that in my photo. Barely dried hair, comfy pullover, ripped jeans — slightly frazzled from having just gotten 3 kids ready for “school” — but smiling and ready for work. I’ve witnessed and read enough on authentic leadership to know that being genuine and vulnerable will get you a lot farther in your career than a glossy headshot.
Where it really gets interesting is in the comments section below her LinkedIn post.
There were comments that were very positive and some that were really rude. The amount of attention has been so popular Lauren changed her last name to “G.” on LinkedIn.
Let’s dive into both sides of the argument.
Should you post a glossy, formal headshot or a casual, homemade photo as your LinkedIn profile picture?
The case for a formal LinkedIn profile photo
In the comments section, the case for a formal photo focuses on the importance of a good image.
“As a personal image consultant since 2006, I had provided guidance to many individuals looking to reach goals, both professionally and personally. And an up-to-date, polished photo on your LinkedIn profile is going to instill confidence in those reaching out to you that you can handle whatever business (or job) they are going to entrust to you.”
It also centers on the purpose of LinkedIn as a social media network and how it is not Facebook.
“This isn’t Facebook. It’s a professional platform established for business networking. I use my professional picture that shows me giving a conference talk…because that is what I am networking to gain more contacts in.”
Another person comments that the type of photo depends on whether you have a job or not.
“I think it’s great that you want to show your authentic self, as long as you already have a job. But if I were looking for a job, I would certainly use the glossy headshot.”
The case for casual LinkedIn profile photo
A person discusses the image does not really matter. It’s all about your state of mind.
“I have never understood how makeup and certain clothes suddenly make me more able to do my job. I have the same mind.”
Comments also focused on being real and authentic like this one:
“People want to know the real you so I think that’s an excellent decision and a great picture.” “I love that you did this! You are more ‘real’ now.”
The case for either/or
One person summed up he liked both.
“I have a little mixed emotion, mainly because I liked the “professional” photo used originally. I saw nothing wrong with it. However, I also like the more “real” photo used now.”
Another person says it depends on your job and work environment.
“I think there is no right or wrong. We will all work best in ‘tribes’ where we feel comfortable with one another.”
In the end, the eye is the be holder, as one person points out.
“Glossy or authentic photos are equally valid… The danger that I see is that whichever photo you post will be judged by the viewer according to their own criteria and that may be glossy or authentic.”
Bringing it all together
LinkedIn is a social media network designed for business and career networking.
It’s interesting LinkedIn didn’t mention the words “formal” or “casual” at all.
